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Straw Bale Retreat Featuring Integrated Rainwater Harvesting

Author:
Paolo Montesanto
Straw Bale Retreat Featuring Integrated Rainwater Harvesting

Project in-detail

Utilizing a straw bale wall system and advanced rainwater harvesting, this compact sleeping pod embodies a sustainable approach to off-grid living amidst nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a straw bale wall system for insulation and structural support.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water use.
03
Features large windows that enhance natural light and outdoor connections.
04
Includes raised beds with integrated storage to maximize limited space.
05
Employs a dry toilet and greywater filtration to maintain off-grid status.

"Like-a-Snail" is a compact sleeping pod designed for off-grid living. It is positioned in a peaceful environment and functions as a temporary retreat that promotes a self-sufficient lifestyle. The design focuses on reducing ecological footprints and increasing resource efficiency, aiming to set a new standard for sustainable living.

Structural Components

The sleeping pod features a straw bale wall system, which serves as both insulation and support. Straw is an agricultural byproduct that is easy to source and costs less, aligning with the project's sustainability goals. This approach not only enhances thermal performance but also minimizes energy consumption.



Material Integration

Wooden boards are also used throughout the building envelope. These boards add strength while providing further insulation. Together with the straw bales, they create an energy-efficient shell that captures warmth and controls moisture, ensuring a comfortable indoor environment.



Resource Management

The design includes systems for energy and water management. Photovoltaic solar panels on the roof generate renewable energy. A rainwater harvesting system is integrated to collect and use water for domestic needs. These features illustrate a commitment to self-sufficiency, reducing dependency on outside resources.



Spatial Efficiency

The interior layout focuses on making the most of limited space while ensuring comfort. Raised beds with built-in storage maximize usability. Large windows invite natural light and enhance views of the surrounding landscape, creating a pleasant living space within the pod.



Additional systems such as a dry toilet and greywater filtration support the overall off-grid capabilities, reflecting a practical approach to sustainable living.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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